What are hub kits, and do I need one for my pontoon boat?

[Tompen]

24 ft pontoon boat
1996 115 evinrude outboard
I currently have Michigan 14x13 prop

What is a flo torq 2 hub kit, and is it necessary and/or recommended for my application?

If I were to buy another Michigan prop (evinrude compatible splines of course), and put in on myself, would I normally buy a hub kit to go along with it?

This item is on an itemized estimate I got today and I'm trying to determine if certain items are excessive. My google search led me to believe I don't need this, but I could be wrong - I know very little about boat motors. This estimate is from a mechanic that I have never used, and he seems inclined to over-do his recommendations, so I'm trying to eliminate potential excess.

Sorry about my ignorance.

 

[GA_Boater]

This is the page for your 1996 115HP from the Prop Finder; http://boatpropellers.iboats.com/Evi...t_id=595108747

This is a prop with an integrated hub with the prop and splined hub bonded as a single unit;



This one is used with a hub kit. As you can see, the splined hub is separate from the prop.



Hub kits are an added expense which will make a prop and hub kit cost more, but the prop can be replaced and the hub kit can be reused. If you are experimenting with prop size and pitch, a prop with a hub kit can cost you less in the long run.

 

[Tompen]

Thanks. That clears it up.

I previously looked at a youtube video which showed someone putting on a hubkit and his comments were that the hub kit was for the purpose of protecting the motor if the prop hit something. He also said something about it improving shifting. It was these comments that caused my confusion -- like the hub kit had a clutch or something in it. Maybe some do? But regardless, as you described it, its basically a universal adapter kind of thing, and that's what I was wondering about.

I am going to scratch the prop and hub kit from my work order. I knew I was paying about $25 too much for the prop, and I was ok with that since I'm having the boat serviced for other things. But now that I know I can do without the hub kit as well, that's another $35 -- so that's $60 I can save by installing my own prop. That's enough savings that its worth my while.

Thx for the help.

 

[Maclin]

Your prop has a rubber hub also, so there is the same type of protection provided. It is just pressed in, and if it becomes a problem with slipping and whatnot then needs to be serviced by a prop shop.